Surgical Robotic Instrument Drive Unit with Rotating Slide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Surgical robotic systems lack a handle assembly to actuate functions of surgical instruments, requiring an instrument drive unit to interface with each unique instrument, which complicates operations and adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A surgical robotic system with a robotic arm, an elongated slide, and an instrument drive unit that includes a motor to actuate electromechanical instruments, allowing for axial and rotational movement along a track, enabling top-loading and rotation of surgical instruments for precise operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an instrument drive unit is used to interface with each unique surgical instrument, then the system can operate without a handle assembly, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The instrument drive unit is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple different surgical instruments through a single standardized coupling mechanism. The drive unit integrates motor actuation, positioning, and instrument interface functions into one multi-functional component, eliminating the need for separate handle assemblies for each instrument type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the slide allows axial movement of the instrument drive unit, then the axial position of the end effector can be adjusted, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The slide mechanism is segmented into discrete functional components: a linear guide track for axial movement, a coupling member for rotational connection, and an instrument drive unit housing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while simplifying the overall assembly and maintenance of the positioning system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the slide can rotate relative to the robotic arm, then the instrument drive unit can be oriented differently, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational capability is merged into the coupling member that connects the slide to the robotic arm. This single component simultaneously provides both the rotational joint and the structural connection, eliminating the need for separate rotation actuators or complex articulated mechanisms while enabling the instrument drive unit to be oriented at different angles.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates efficient and precise operation of surgical instruments by allowing top-loading and rotation, enhancing the ability to perform minimally invasive procedures with reduced complexity and improved instrument compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
The instrument drive unit includes a motor configured to interface with an electromechanical instrument to actuate functions of the electromechanical instrument
Implementation Method 2
The slide is configured to rotate relative to the robotic arm about a longitudinal axis defined by the instrument drive unit
Implementation Method 3
The instrument drive unit is coupled to the track and is configured to move along the track
Data Source
AI summary
A surgical robotic system includes a robotic arm, an elongated slide coupled to the robotic arm, and an instrument drive unit coupled to a track defined by the slide. The instrument drive unit is configured to move along the track and includes a motor configured to interface with an electromechanical instrument to actuate functions of the electromechanical instrument. The slide is configured to rotate relative to the robotic arm about a longitudinal axis defined by the instrument drive unit.